Discover Eastern R&R Secrets with Jojo’s Diary of Asia on TLC

Press release

Are you in dire need of a relaxing vacation yet you don’t know where to go? This August, find out stunning destinations, de-stressing activities, rich cultures and great food on the all-new series JOJO’S DIARY OF ASIA, premiering on August 3, airing Mondays at 10 p.m.

JOJO’S DIARY OF ASIA follows the unforgettable journey of TV host and travel enthusiast Jojo Struys as she uncovers the unique ways people can disconnect from stress in their daily lives while soaking up different cultures and learning how to make a diverse array of traditional Asian dishes. Follow Jojo as she immerses in the deeply cultural customs and delights in Japan, the breathtaking natural beauty of Nepal and the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong.

Unearth the multitude of ways you can de-stress - bathing elephants in the Himalayas, learning breathing techniques from a Zen Buddhist monk and wielding a samurai sword in Tokyo. Join her as she discovers the pampering secrets of these three wondrous countries in JOJO’S DIARY OF ASIA, airing this August on TLC.

Episode Synopsis:

·         EP 1 Japan: Jojo kick-starts her journey in Japan. She immerses herself in the healing waters of the famous hot springs known as “onsens”, gets a bit of animal therapy in Adventure World, and makes her very own sushi with Japan’s renowned pickled apricots called “Umeboshi”.

·         EP 2 Japan: In the heart of historical Kyoto, Jojo has a session with a Zen Buddhist monk at Myonshinji Temple. She heads to Toei Kyoto Studio Park to get her face painted porcelain white as an apprentice Geisha, called a “Maiko”. While soaking up the incredible sights around the Kiyomizu temple, she gets a lesson in making nutritious Tofu.

·         EP 3 Japan: At the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji, Jojo travels to a volcanic zone in Hakone to experience the legendary black eggs of “Owakudani”. She then experiences the ride of her life on the world’s steepest roller coaster at Fuji Q Highland. Jojo finally winds down in more “onsens”, just in time to learn how to make a famous fisherman’s dish called “Namerou”.

·         EP 4 Japan: Jojo has learned the art of the Samurai sword on her one-on-one lesson with one of Japan’s most renowned swordsmen, and has found a unique relaxation with the sight of the fascinating jellyfish at the Enoshima aquarium.  She learns the history of cup noodles and makes her own version upon visiting Cup Noodle Museum.

·         EP 5 Japan: It’s an exciting physical winter day for Jojo who rides a bullet train from Tokyo to spectacular Karuizawa, to visit and witness the beauty of Mount Asama. After an amazing ride, she learns the sport of skiing and curling which is also known as “chess on ice”. Jojo also gets to try how to traditionally make delicious “udon” noodles from scratch.

·         EP 6 Nepal: Jojo takes her adventure to the next level by heading to the beautiful country of Nepal. Here she visits the old village of Bhaktapur to learn about the art of making traditional Tanka paintings, how to create wonderful pots on a spinning wheel and make some “Bara”, which is a very famous and golden-coloured lentil patty.

·         EP 7 Nepal: Continuing her journey in the country of Nepal, Jojo visits the valley of Chitwan, where she gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to personally bathe an elephant in the river, experience the famous folk dance steps wearing the local dance costume of the Tharu tribe, explore the local market and learn how to make the much-loved Nepali dish “Alu tama” with a chef along the native river.

·         EP 8 Nepal: Upon enjoying the horse cart ride, Jojo gets to bond with the local villagers and witnesses an exciting battle of spinning tops by the local children. She hits the mountainous roads to visit the world famous birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini, a sacred site for Buddhists around the world. Jojo also travels to the mountains of the Annapurna range in Pokhara where she learns how to cook a traditional Thakali meal.

·         EP 9 Nepal: Jojo experiences the relaxing “hot stones” massage and heads to one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world, Pokhara, where she encounters curio shops and Tibetan peddlars selling their wares all bound in the charismatic Fewa Lake. She tries the paddleboat and catches a thrilling snake charmer in action. Jojo learns how make the traditional staple meal in the highlands of Nepal, Dhido.

·         EP 10 Nepal: A wonderful flight over Mount Everest takes over Jojo’s morning. She visits Thamel Street for a sound healing workshop with musical healers, who use the power of vibrations to heal a diverse array of ailments. After being given the privilege to meet the “Living Goddess” or the “Kumari” child, Jojo has an enlightening conversation about attachments with a Buddhist monk and walks down to try a traditional Nepalese dinner, accompanied by vibrant dancers all in a cultural restaurant in Spice Street.

·         Ep 11 Hong Kong: Jojo flies to Hong Kong where she first experiences Dragon dancing. She learns to create latte art and paintings on canvas through her art jamming in the lovely city. Jojo visits the winding lanes of the popular ladies market before her cooking session with a local chef at the Auberge hotel in Discovery Bay.